Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
01 reviewWhitefish Lake Rustic Campground, Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open May 10 through ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
3 campsites
Season
Open May 10 through ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsWhitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees required for camping at either the rustic campground or the backcountry sites.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider(218) 663-8060SM.FS.Superior_NF@usda.gov
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 1 reviews
8 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quiet
"User reviews emphasize the quiet and remote nature of the campground, its suitability for stargazing, and the lack of modern facilities."
Fees & Passes at Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 days allowed
Cancellation: As the campground is non-reservable, no cancellation policy applies.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Superior National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
From the awakening forests of mid-May through the golden days of October, Whitefish Lake transforms with the seasons. Early spring campers witness nature's rebirth amid crisp mornings that may still whisper of winter's frost, while summer brings gentle warmth perfect for paddling adventures, punctuated by refreshing afternoon rains that keep the forest lush and alive. As autumn approaches, the wilderness prepares for its winter slumber with increasingly cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Likely summer months, between May 10 and October 1.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 10 through October 1.
- Current Alerts: None noted in provided information.
About Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Whitefish Lake Rustic Campground, where three tranquil lakeside campsites offer a true back-to-basics experience without the crowds or fees. For those seeking deeper solitude, paddle your canoe through pristine portage routes to discover 11 hidden backcountry sites scattered across this remote paradise, each promising your own private slice of northern Minnesota's wild heart.
Whitefish Lake Rustic Campground offers both rustic and backcountry camping options. The rustic campground includes three sites accessible by vehicle, whereas the backcountry sites are accessible only by canoe and are first-come, first-served. There are no fees for any of the campsites.
Historical SignificanceThis pristine corner of Superior National Forest preserves the timeless wilderness experience that has drawn adventurers north for generations. Here, modern visitors follow in the paddle strokes of countless explorers, experiencing the same sense of discovery and self-reliance that defines the spirit of Minnesota's Northwoods heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the awakening forests of mid-May through the golden days of October, Whitefish Lake transforms with the seasons. Early spring campers witness nature's rebirth amid crisp mornings that may still whisper of winter's frost, while summer brings gentle warmth perfect for paddling adventures, punctuated by refreshing afternoon rains that keep the forest lush and alive. As autumn approaches, the wilderness prepares for its winter slumber with increasingly cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings.
ElevationNestled among the gentle rises and falls of Superior National Forest's ancient landscape, the campground rests at the characteristic elevation of Minnesota's lake country, where glacial forces carved a terrain perfect for paddling adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryWhitefish Lake unveils a tapestry of pristine wilderness where crystal-clear waters mirror towering pines and the call of loons echoes across still mornings. Dense boreal forests embrace the shoreline, creating intimate camping spaces while opening to reveal stunning lake vistas. At night, far from city lights, the Milky Way blazes across an unpolluted sky, transforming your campsite into a natural planetarium where shooting stars are commonplace companions.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Superior National Forest, Whitefish Lake occupies a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers into a paddler's dream. This intricate network of lakes and waterways, connected by historic portage trails, offers an authentic wilderness experience that rivals the famous Boundary Waters without the permit requirements. Here, granite bedrock meets clear waters in a geological symphony millions of years in the making, creating the perfect backdrop for your rustic camping adventure.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeTwo of the three sites are longer than 21 feet and may accommodate an RV. Backcountry sites are small, single-party sites accessible by canoe.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of the sites is not directly stated, but backcountry sites are described as near-wilderness and single-party, suggesting a good degree of solitude.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTwo of the three sites at the rustic campground may accommodate RVs (pull-in style, longer than 21 feet).
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days allowed
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 9 people per site
Groups
No designated group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThree pull-in sites are available at the rustic campground; 11 additional backcountry campsites are accessible via canoe along interconnected lakes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 10 through October 1.
Reservation PlatformsCamping is first-come-first-served; no reservation platform available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up, first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyAs the campground is non-reservable, no cancellation policy applies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a range of outdoor activities, including non-motorized boating, lake fishing, and scenic viewing. The interconnected lakes make this area ideal for canoeing and exploring. The environment is also conducive to quiet stargazing on clear nights.
Fishing
Lake fishing is available. Campers are reminded to pack out all fish remains.Boating
"Whitefish Lake Rustic Campground and the Timber-Frear Area includes a 3 site rustic campground and 11 backcountry campsites scattered on 5 lakes. These lakes, along with four others, are interconnected with portages to form an excellent canoe route and camping experience." Only non-motorized boating is supported.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing are a key feature of the area.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in established fire rings. Campers must ensure fire safety and adhere to campground rules.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsLake water must be treated before use. The remote location requires packing out all waste, including fish remains.
Active alertsNone noted in provided information.
Weather at Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area
3
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Tofte Ranger District Office, located at 7355 West Hwy 61, Tofte, MN 55615 (Phone: (218) 663-8060). This office offers services Wednesday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM during the April 28–September 30 operational season.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely summer months, between May 10 and October 1.
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage pickup; campers must pack out all waste, including fish remains.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground and backcountry sites are adjacent to interconnected lakes suitable for canoeing and kayaking. There is no motorized boat access.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention inaccuracies in toilet type descriptions at nearby locations; specifically, expectations for flush toilets are incorrect—only vault toilets are available.
HostNot specified.
Campground Map
Whitefish Lake Rustic Campground, Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Driving directionsFrom MN 61 northeast of Schroeder: Between Schroeder and the entrance to Temperance River State Park, turn inland on FR 343 (Temperance River Rd.). Drive 4 miles to a T intersection with FR 166 (The '600' Road). Turn left, drive 1 mile to FR 346. Turn right on FR 346. Drive 5.5 miles to FR 170 (The Grade). Turn left on FR 170. Drive 2 miles to FR 348 (Whitefish Lake Access). Turn right on FR 348. Drive 4.5 miles to Whitefish Lake Rustic Campground.
Access roads involve a combination of forest roads (e.g., FR 343, FR 346, FR 170, and FR 348). While the roads reach the campground, navigating them could be challenging for larger or oversized vehicles due to the narrower and rustic conditions. The campground is designed for carry-down boat access only.Nearby places
Schroeder (distance not explicitly provided)
Nearby supplies
Closest supply locations or detailed distances not provided
recommended to carry sufficient supplies, including potable water, as no drinking water is available directly on-site.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
1 reviews
Whitefish Lake Rustic Campgd & Timber-Frear Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the quiet and remote nature of the campground, its suitability for stargazing, and the lack of modern facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very quiet area with awesome opportunities for star gazing on clear nights."
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of flushable toilets was highlighted: "Another review claimed there was a flushable toilet, which is definitely not accurate. There is a vault toilet near the parking area, and I would...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own toiletries and be prepared to pack out all waste. Canoeing is highly recommended to explore the interconnected lakes.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from May 10 to October 1, and weather conditions suggest that summer is the best season for visiting due to longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Very quiet area with awesome opportunities for star gazing on clear nights." Another user stated, "There is a vault toilet near the parking area, and I would recommend bringing your own toiletries."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews specify which of the three rustic or 11 backcountry sites are preferred.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No detailed user reviews about pet experiences are provided, but the campground allows dogs and provides guidelines for their management.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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